Running has a way of becoming so much more than just a physical activity. For me, it started as a challenge – something I did to get fit, push boundaries, and just prove a point to my self. But somewhere along the way, it transformed me. Running has become a way to connect with who I truly am. It’s a place where I find clarity, strength, and purpose.
When I lace up my shoes and step out the door, I’m not running for medals, accolades, or even a personal best. Those things are cool, but they’re not my why. I run for me.
The Journey to This Realization
When I first started running in 2017, it was about testing my limits. I ran my first half marathon as a way to see what I was capable of. It was hard, but the sense of accomplishment I felt crossing that finish line was unparalleled. Soon, I moved up to marathons, and with each one, I discovered new facets of resilience and mental toughness.
But it wasn’t always easy. Like most runners, I’ve had moments where I questioned why I was doing it. Training in the dead of winter, slogging through long runs when my legs felt like lead, and dealing with the uncertainties – all of it tested my resolve.
Through it all, I kept going, and I realized that running had become something deeply personal. It wasn’t about impressing others or chasing someone else’s definition of success. It was about showing up for myself.
Why I Run
I run because it reminds me that I’m capable of doing hard things. Every mile is a testament to my determination and grit. Running has taught me how to set goals, stay disciplined, and push through discomfort – lessons that apply to every aspect of my life.
I run because it clears my mind. There’s something meditative about the rhythmic sound of my feet hitting the ground. On solo runs, I’ve worked through problems, dreamed up new ideas, and even found peace during challenging times.
I run because it connects me to a community. Whether it’s group long runs with friends, cheering on others at races, or bonding with my partner, Helena, through shared miles, running has introduced me to incredible people who inspire me every day.
And most importantly, I run because it’s a way of reclaiming myself. Life is full of responsibilities and expectations, but when I’m running, I’m free. Those miles belong to me, and in them, I rediscover my strength, joy, and sense of purpose.
A Runner’s Diary
This philosophy is at the heart of my journey and my upcoming book, I Run for Me: A Runner’s Diary. It’s a collection of stories, reflections, and lessons from the road. It’s not just about running but about the life it has helped me build—the resilience, the connections, and the self-discovery.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that running is not just about the finish line. It’s about the journey—every step, every struggle, every victory along the way.
So, if you’re out there chasing miles or considering starting your own running journey, ask yourself this: Why do I run?
For me, the answer is simple: I run for me.
